As a young immigrant from the Philippines, Angela Mae Platon had to adapt to a new culture while keeping her sense of self and maintaining good grades. She and her mother strived to create an ideal life despite overwhelming adversity, including her parents’ divorce and financial hardship. Their struggle motivated her to invest in her education, so she could provide them both with a better life.

Angela is a sophomore at California State University, East Bay majoring in kinesiology and pre-nursing studies. Her interest in helping people led her to pursue a career in healthcare and encouraged her volunteer work at John Muir Health Hospital. As a student leader she served on the ASI Concord Committee, organizing activities to enrich the student experience on the satellite campus.

With a 3.9 GPA, Angela plans to apply to nursing programs this fall and earn her bachelor of science degree in nursing and Registered Nursing license. She aspires to become a maternity nurse and aid families in the birthing process.